Ford Escape vs Subaru Outback
The Ford Escape is more fuel-efficient at 41 MPG combined, against 29 MPG for the Subaru Outback. At EPA assumptions that is about $650 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Ford Escape | Subaru Outback | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 2,159 | 1,143 |
| Most reported problem | Body & structure | Wipers, windshield & visibility |
| Crashes and fires | 32 and 9 | 37 and 11 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 42,000 miles | 6,000 miles |
| Recalls | 23 | 6 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 41 MPG | 29 MPG |
| City and highway | 44 and 37 | 26 and 33 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $1,650 | $2,300 |
| NHTSA overall safety |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 2,159 complaints for the Ford Escape and 1,143 for the Subaru Outback. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
NHTSA's overall safety ratings: 5 stars for the Ford Escape, 5 stars for the Subaru Outback.
Safety recalls on file: 23 for the Ford Escape, 6 for the Subaru Outback.